Question

Explain the concept of sustainable development.

Hint:

For full marks: start with the definition, list the three pillars, add principles, give sectoral examples, and close with a one-line summary.

Answer 1

Definition: Sustainable development means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It integrates economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection.
Core pillars
1.\; Economic sustainability: Efficient, innovation-driven growth and decent jobs without eroding natural capital.
2.\; Social sustainability: Equity, poverty reduction, gender justice, health, education, cultural diversity and participation.
3.\; Environmental sustainability: Conserving biodiversity, soil, water and air; limiting pollution and greenhouse gases; circular use of resources.
Key principles
- Intergenerational equity: Fairness between present and future users of resources.
- Intragenerational equity: Fair distribution of benefits across regions and social groups today.
- Precautionary approach: Prevent harm when scientific certainty is limited.
- Polluter pays & extended producer responsibility: Internalize environmental costs and ensure lifecycle stewardship.
- Efficiency & circularity: Reduce, reuse, recycle; shift to cleaner energy and technologies.
- Participation & good governance: Transparent, community-centric decision-making and accountability.
Operationalization (illustrative)
- Energy: Renewable power, efficiency (buildings, appliances), e-mobility and green hydrogen.
- Water & land: Watershed management, rainwater harvesting, micro-irrigation, sustainable agriculture and soil conservation.
- Cities: Public transport, compact mixed-use planning, waste segregation with compost/biogas and material recovery.
- Industry: Cleaner production, resource efficiency, zero-liquid discharge where feasible, and ESG reporting.
- Ecosystems: Afforestation, wetland and river restoration, protected areas and community-based conservation.
Why it matters
- Addresses poverty–environment linkages, reduces disaster and climate risks, safeguards food/water/energy security and supports long-term, inclusive prosperity.
Exam line
Sustainable development is best summarized as a balanced path that is economically viable, socially just and ecologically sound.